Obesity significantly increases the risk of developing plantar fasciitis, a painful condition that affects the heel and arch of the foot. Excess body weight places strain on the plantar fascia, the thick tissue band connecting the heel bone to the toes, leading to inflammation and microtears. This pressure not only causes severe pain but can also prolong the healing process. Individuals who are overweight are more likely to experience persistent pain and difficulty with daily activities, such as walking or standing. Extra body weight adds to other factors that contribute to plantar fasciitis, such as poor foot mechanics and inadequate footwear. If you are experiencing symptoms like sharp heel pain, particularly in the morning, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist. This medically trained foot doctor can examine your feet and suggest treatment that may include orthotics, specific exercises, and weight-related lifestyle adjustments.

Obesity has become very problematic at this point in time and can have extremely negative effects on the feet. If you’re an obese individual and are concerned about your feet, contact one of our podiatrists from Grobowski Foot & Ankle. our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Obesity and Your Feet

Since your feet are what support your entire weight when standing, any additional weight can result in pain and swelling. Being overweight is one of the main contributors to foot complications.

Problems & Complications

Extra Weight – Even putting on just a few extra pounds could create serious complications for your feet. As your weight increases, your balance and body will shift, creating new stresses on your feet. This uneven weight distribution can cause pain, even while doing the simplest tasks, such as walking.

Diabetes – People who are overweight are at serious risk of developing type-2 diabetes, which has a drastic impact on the health of your feet. As you get older, your diabetes might worsen, which could lead to loss of feeling in your feet, sores, and bruises. You could also become more prone to various infections.

Plantar fasciitis – Pressure and stress that is placed on muscles, joints, and tendons can trigger plantar fasciitis, which is an inflammation of tissue that forms along the bottom of the foot. 

If you have any questions please feel free to contact one of our offices located in Bellevue, Seattle, and Issaquah, WA, . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Wearing flip-flops can significantly alter ankle biomechanics and foot-loading patterns, leading to various potential foot problems. Unlike supportive shoes, flip-flops lack arch support, cushioning, and stability. This minimalistic design forces the wearer to grip the footwear with their toes, causing unnatural foot mechanics. As a result, the ankle and surrounding muscles compensate for the instability, which can lead to altered gait patterns and increased strain on the lower leg. This compensation can cause overuse injuries, such as tendonitis or plantar fasciitis. Furthermore, the lack of support in flip-flops often results in uneven weight distribution across the foot. Typically, more pressure is placed on the heel and ball of the foot, which can lead to discomfort and pain over time. If you have endured foot pain or have developed a foot condition from wearing flip-flops, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can offer relief methods and guide you toward wearing more supportive shoes.

Flip-flops are not always the best choice of footwear. If you have any concerns about your feet or ankles, contact one of our podiatrists from Grobowski Foot & Ankle. our doctors will assist you with all of your foot and ankle needs.

Flip-Flops and Feet

When the weather starts warming up, people enjoy wearing flip-flops.  Flip-flops are comfortable, stylish, and easy to slip on and off; they're perfect for any summer beach goer.  However, these shoes can cause harm to the feet.

How Can Flip-Flops Affect Me Long-Term?

• Ankle problems
• Hip problems
• Lower back problems
• Pain in the balls of the feet
• Problems with foot arches
• Changes in the way you walk

Are There Injuries Associated with Flip-Flops?

Yes.  Since flip-flops are relatively weak and do not provide the same amount of support as sneakers, people who wear flip-flops regularly are more susceptible to injuries. On top of that, the open nature of the shoe makes your feet more prone to other problems, such as cuts and even infections.  Common injuries and ailments include:

• Sprained ankles
• Blisters
• Infections
• Cuts and Scrapes

I like Wearing Flip-Flops. Are There Safe Alternatives?

When buying flip-flops, try to find ones that have sturdy soles and that are made of high-quality materials that will support for your feet.  These flip-flops will cost more but will also last longer as a result.

If you have any questions please feel free to contact one of our offices located in Bellevue, Seattle, and Issaquah, WA, .  We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Running is often considered a contact sport due to the repeated impact of the feet striking the ground. To avoid injuries while running, it is important to follow some key tips. Begin with a proper warm-up to prepare your muscles and joints for the activity ahead. Running at an easy pace most of the time allows your body to adapt to the stresses of running, reducing the risk of overuse injuries. Gradually increasing your running intensity and distance helps to build endurance and strength safely. Incorporate strength training exercises to enhance muscle stability and support your joints. Pay attention to your running form, maintaining an upright posture and a mid-foot strike to distribute impact forces evenly. Wearing appropriate, well-fitted running shoes is essential to provide the necessary support and cushioning. Lastly, listen to your body, and rest if you feel pain or discomfort. If you are a runner, to get the most out of your sport, it is suggested that you seek personalized advice and injury prevention strategies from a podiatrist.

Exercising your feet regularly with the proper foot wear is a great way to prevent injuries. If you have any concerns about your feet, contact one of our podiatrists of Grobowski Foot & Ankle. our doctors will treat your foot and ankle needs.

How to Prevent Running Injuries

Many common running injuries are caused by overuse and overtraining. When the back of the kneecap starts wearing out and starts causing pain in your knee, this is commonly referred to as runner’s knee. Runner’s knee is a decrease in strength in your quadriceps and can occur if you’re not wearing properly fitted or supporting shoes. To prevent runner’s knee, focusing on hip strengthening is a good idea, as well as strengthening your quads to keep the kneecaps aligned.

What Are Some Causes of Running Injuries?
- One cause of a common running injury is called iliotibial band syndrome.
- Plantar fasciitis is also another common injury.
- Stress fractures can occur from overtraining, lack of calcium, or even your running style.

Best Ways to Prevent Running Injuries
- Wear footwear that fits properly and suits your running needs.
- Running shoes are the only protective gear that runners have to safeguard them from injury.
- Make a training schedule. Adding strengthening exercises as well as regular stretching can help keep you strong and limber and can lessen the possibility of injuries.
- Stretching keeps muscles limber; this will help you gain better flexibility.

If you have any questions please feel free to contact one of our offices located in Bellevue, Seattle, and Issaquah, WA, . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Diabetes significantly affects foot health due to the condition's influence on circulation and nerve function. Poor blood flow, a common complication, hinders the healing process and increases the risk of infections. Nerve damage, or neuropathy, reduces sensation in the feet, making it difficult to notice injuries or pressure sores. These issues can escalate to serious infections or ulcers if left untreated, potentially leading to amputations. Maintaining proper foot care and regular check-ups are essential for individuals with diabetes to prevent severe complications. Simple practices, such as daily inspections for cuts or blisters and wearing appropriate footwear, can make a substantial positive difference. Overall, understanding the connection between diabetes and foot health is important in managing the condition and preventing debilitating outcomes. If you have diabetes, it is strongly suggested that you are under the care of a podiatrist who can help you manage this serious condition.

Diabetic foot care is important in preventing foot ailments such as ulcers. If you are suffering from diabetes or have any other concerns about your feet, contact one of our podiatrists from Grobowski Foot & Ankle. our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Diabetic Foot Care

Diabetes affects millions of people every year. The condition can damage blood vessels in many parts of the body, especially the feet. Because of this, taking care of your feet is essential if you have diabetes, and having a podiatrist help monitor your foot health is highly recommended.

The Importance of Caring for Your Feet

• Routinely inspect your feet for bruises or sores.
• Wear socks that fit your feet comfortably.
• Wear comfortable shoes that provide adequate support.

Patients with diabetes should have their doctor monitor their blood levels, as blood sugar levels play such a huge role in diabetic care. Monitoring these levels on a regular basis is highly advised.

It is always best to inform your healthcare professional of any concerns you may have regarding your feet, especially for diabetic patients. Early treatment and routine foot examinations are keys to maintaining proper health, especially because severe complications can arise if proper treatment is not applied.

If you have any questions please feel free to contact one of our offices located in Bellevue, Seattle, and Issaquah, WA, . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Cracked heels can be caused by many factors. The skin on heels are naturally dry and may crack when exposed to long periods of pressure, such as standing. Additionally, wearing open-backed shoes, like sandals, may progress the condition by allowing the skin to expand and split. Other causes of cracked heels include the lack of moisture from harsh weather and underlying health conditions. Certain medical conditions, including diabetes, eczema, psoriasis, and thyroid disorders, also may be factors in cracked skin on the heels. The aging process can aid in development of cracked heels, due to the skin losing its flexibility over time. Proper foot care, such as moisturizing and supportive footwear, may help prevent this condition. Podiatrists can provide professional care and guidance to manage and treat cracked heels. If the cracked skin on your heels forms fissures or begins to bleed, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist for treatment to avoid infection. 

Many people suffer from bouts of heel pain. For more information, contact one of our podiatrists of Grobowski Foot & Ankle. our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Causes of Heel Pain

Heel pain is often associated with plantar fasciitis. The plantar fascia is a band of tissues that extends along the bottom of the foot. A rip or tear in this ligament can cause inflammation of the tissue.

Achilles tendonitis is another cause of heel pain. Inflammation of the Achilles tendon will cause pain from fractures and muscle tearing. Lack of flexibility is also another symptom.

Heel spurs are another cause of pain. When the tissues of the plantar fascia undergo a great deal of stress, it can lead to ligament separation from the heel bone, causing heel spurs.

Why Might Heel Pain Occur?

• Wearing ill-fitting shoes                  
• Wearing non-supportive shoes
• Weight change           
• Excessive running

Treatments

Heel pain should be treated as soon as possible for immediate results. Keeping your feet in a stress-free environment will help. If you suffer from Achilles tendonitis or plantar fasciitis, applying ice will reduce the swelling. Stretching before an exercise like running will help the muscles. Using all these tips will help make heel pain a condition of the past.

If you have any questions please contact one of our offices located in Bellevue, Seattle, and Issaquah, WA, . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.